Airdate

Cast

The third season finds the writing back on track in Masterpiece’s welcome return to form.

America’s love affair with Downton Abbey is quite a wonder on many levels, and maybe one of the most intriguing is that despite a steep quality drop in season two, viewers remained ironclad loyal. Anyone who — on blind faith — ignored the serious plotting flaws and dramatic twists will be rewarded by what is shaping up to be a fine comeback in season three.

Downton is a soap opera, and as even the Dowager Countess (Maggie Smith) might say, we mustn’t ignore the evidence in front of our faces. Viewers…